NEYMAR RETIRES FROM INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL AFTER BRAZIL'S WORLD CUP EXIT

Neymar announced his retirement from international football after Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup on Sunday at MetLife Stadium. The Brazilian forward entered the match as a second-half substitute in the 67th minute and converted a stoppage-time penalty, but the goal proved insufficient to prevent elimination. Neymar wept on the field after the final whistle and told teammates: "I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished it here. It is now over."

Neymar had been selected for the tournament squad managed by Carlo Ancelotti despite sustaining a calf injury in May whilst playing for Santos FC. He did not start in any of Brazil's matches during the competition. Norway striker Erling Haaland opened the scoring 12 minutes after Neymar's introduction and added a second goal in the 90th minute. The penalty Neymar scored followed a foul by Norway defender Leo Østigard, who elbowed Casemiro in the head during a contested header.

Neymar's spot kick marked his 80th goal for Brazil, extending his record as the nation's leading international goalscorer by three goals ahead of Pelé. Brazil's last World Cup victory came in 2002, and the team has not advanced beyond the quarterfinals in any World Cup tournament where Neymar has featured in the squad. Neymar will continue his club career with Santos FC following his decision to end his international playing days.